3 syllables: ar, chi, tects. Stress on ar.
AHR-kuh-tekts
/ˈɑɹkəˌtɛkts/
architects is pronounced AHR-kuh-tekts (/ˈɑɹkəˌtɛkts/). It has three syllables (ar-chi-tects), with the stress on "ar". Architects refers to professionals who design buildings and often oversee construction. The term typically denotes individuals trained in architecture, emphasizing both creative design and technical specifications. In common usage, it also refers to the field as a whole, encompassing firms, projects, and the practice of architectural design.
Architects refers to professionals who design buildings and often oversee construction. The term typically denotes individuals trained in architecture, emphasizing both creative design and technical specifications. In common usage, it also refers to the field as a whole, encompassing firms, projects, and the practice of architectural design.
"The architects presented a daring new plan for the city hall."
"Several architects collaborated to redesign the campus library."
"In the course, you’ll study how architects translate clients' needs into functional, aesthetic spaces."
Pronounce it as AR-kɪ-tekts (US/UK). The primary stress is on the first syllable: /ˈɑː.kɪ.teks/ in careful articulation, with a crisp -tks ending. In careful US/UK pronunciation, the -tcts can sound like -tks in rapid speech. Keep the tongue high for the first vowel, then relax into a mid-central vowel in the second syllable, and finish with a voiceless cluster -kt s.
Common errors: (1) Dropping the second syllable vowels, sounding like AR-kə-TEKS or AR-chits; (2) Slurring the -tcts into a single /ks/ or /ts/ too softly, producing AR-ki-ks. Correction: clearly articulate each syllable: AR-kɪ-tects, with a light aspirated t and a final -ks cluster. Practice by saying: AR-kɪ-tects, slowly, then speed up while maintaining the vowel quality and the -kts ending. Focus on keeping the middle vowel distinct.
In US and UK, the first syllable carries primary stress: /ˈɑː.kɪ.teks/ or /ˈær.kɪ.teks/ depending on vowel variety, with the final -ts clearly released. Austral‑accent typically maintains the same stress but may show a slightly rounded or shorter final vowel in American varieties, and nonrhotic tendencies can influence vowel length. The -tects ending remains a voiceless cluster /tks/ across the three. Subtle vowel quality differences persist: US often uses a broader /æ/ or /ɑː/ in the first vowel, UK leans toward /ɑː/ or /ɒ/ depending on dialect, AU sits in between depending on speaker.
Because of the multi-consonant cluster -tects at the end and the short second vowel in many dialects. You juggle a distinct syllable boundary with a crisp t sound leading into the voiceless /ks/ sequence. The risk: smoothing the -t- into a d or merging syllables (AR-ki-tects). Tip: isolate the ending as -tcts with a quick, light release, and keep the middle vowel steady as you transition to the final -ks.
The word uniquely combines a stressed initial syllable with a tricky -tects ending that includes a t release before a voiceless /k/ and /s/ cluster. The middle vowel must be distinct (not reduced) to avoid conflating with ‘arc’ or ‘arch’ sounds. The balance of saliva, tongue height, and air pressure in the -tects sequence makes it particularly challenging for non-native speakers or rapid speech.
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Architect is derived from the Greek architektōn, from archi- (“chief” or “principal”) + tekton, meaning “builder” or “carpenter.” The plural architects adds the standard -s suffix. The term appeared in English in the 16th century, signifying a chief builder or planner who translates a patron’s requirements into a design. Early usage related to master builders in medieval and Renaissance contexts, evolving through the spread of formal architectural education in Europe. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the word increasingly referred to professionals with formal training in architectural theory, drawing, and project management, not merely builders. In modern English, “architects” denotes licensed or trained professionals who conceive, document, and supervise architectural projects, balancing creativity with technical constraints. The word’s evolution mirrors the profession’s shift from guild-based craft to institutional practice and design discourse.
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💡 These words have similar meanings to "architects" and can often be used interchangeably.
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Words that rhyme with "architects"
-fts sounds
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